Choosing the right diamond shape for an engagement ring is a deeply personal decision, but it's also one that many people find difficult. Oval and round diamonds are two of the most popular shapes for engagement rings, and each has its own set of benefits, aesthetic qualities, and style versatility. In this article, we'll compare oval diamonds with round diamonds in various aspects to help you make an informed choice.

Table of Contents

• Introduction to Oval and Round Diamonds
• History of Oval and Round Diamond Shapes
• Oval Diamond vs Round Diamond: Shape Comparison
• Brilliance and Sparkle Differences
• Appearance and Size Perception
• Cost Comparison: Which Offers Better Value?
• Round Diamond Engagement Ring: Classic and Timeless Appeal
• Oval Diamond Ring: Contemporary Elegance and Uniqueness
• Popular Ring Settings for Round Diamonds
• Popular Ring Settings for Oval Diamonds
• Round Diamond Engagement Ring with Side Stones
• Oval Diamond Engagement Ring with Accent Stones
• Color and Clarity: What to Consider in Each Shape
• Round White Gold Diamond Rings: A Popular Choice
• Oval vs Round Diamonds: Durability and Practicality
• Oval and Round Diamonds in Different Metals: White Gold, Yellow Gold, and Platinum
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Oval and round diamonds are two of the most popular choices for engagement rings. Both shapes exude elegance and style but have distinct characteristics that set them apart. Understanding these differences will help you choose the perfect diamond shape for yourself or a loved one.

History of Oval and Round Diamond Shapes

The round diamond has been a classic choice for centuries, with its shape dating back to early diamond cuts. However, the modern round brilliant cut was perfected in the 20th century, maximizing its sparkle and popularity.

The oval diamond is relatively new in comparison, introduced in the 1960s by diamond cutter Lazare Kaplan. Designed to combine brilliance with a unique shape, oval diamonds have steadily gained popularity for their elongating effect and distinct elegance.

Oval Diamond vs Round Diamond: Shape Comparison

The primary distinction between these diamonds is, of course, the shape. Round diamonds are perfectly circular, offering a symmetrical, timeless look. Oval diamonds, by contrast, are elongated circles with rounded edges, giving a more modern and artistic appearance.

Brilliance and Sparkle Differences

Both round and oval diamonds are celebrated for their brilliance, but round diamonds have an advantage. Featuring 58 facets in a classic brilliant cut, round diamonds optimize light refraction, producing an intense sparkle and shine.

 

Oval diamonds also utilize a brilliant cut; however, their elongated shape results in a different distribution of sparkle, with more brilliance concentrated at the ends. This gives oval diamonds a radiant appearance, while maintaining a softer, more unique brilliance compared to round diamonds.

Appearance and Size Perception

Oval diamonds have the advantage of appearing larger than round diamonds of the same carat weight. This is due to the elongated shape, which creates the illusion of more size. For those looking to maximize the visual impact without increasing the budget, an oval diamond can be an excellent choice.

Cost Comparison: Which Offers Better Value?

Round diamonds are typically more expensive per carat than oval diamonds. The round cut requires more of the rough diamond to be discarded, which raises the cost. An oval diamond ring of similar quality can often be less expensive, making it a budget-friendly option for those who want a large, eye-catching stone without the higher price tag of a round diamond.

Round Diamond Engagement Ring: Classic and Timeless Appeal

For those drawn to tradition and classic beauty, a round diamond engagement ring is hard to beat. The symmetry and intense sparkle of a round diamond make it a classic choice, symbolizing elegance and timelessness. Round diamonds are versatile and look stunning in both vintage and contemporary settings, appealing to a wide range of personal styles.

Oval Diamond Ring: Contemporary Elegance and Uniqueness

The oval diamond ring stands out as a chic and stylish choice, offering a slightly different look while still boasting a brilliant sparkle. It's ideal for individuals who appreciate a unique twist on the traditional, combining modern aesthetics with graceful lines.

Popular Ring Settings for Round Diamonds

Round diamond engagement rings can be set in a variety of ways to enhance their classic appeal. Some popular choices include:

• Solitaire settings, which place the focus solely on the diamond.
• Halo settings, adding extra sparkle around the center diamond.
• Bezel settings, providing a more modern and secure look.

These settings all highlight the brilliance of round diamonds beautifully.

Popular Ring Settings for Oval Diamonds

Oval diamond rings can also be paired with a variety of settings to enhance their elongated look:

• East-west settings, where the diamond is set horizontally for a unique look.
• Three-stone settings, adding smaller stones to complement the center diamond.
• Vintage-inspired settings, combining intricate metalwork with the elegance of the oval diamond.

Each setting brings out the distinct personality of an oval diamond.

Round Diamond Engagement Ring with Side Stones

Adding side stones to a round diamond engagement ring increases its sparkle and visual interest. Side stones, often smaller diamonds or colored gemstones can be arranged to complement the main stone and enhance its brilliance. This style is ideal for those looking to add a touch of glamour to a traditional round diamond ring.

Oval Diamond Engagement Ring with Accent Stones

Similarly, an oval diamond engagement ring with accent stones creates a more elaborate and unique look. Side stones can emphasize the elongated shape of the oval diamond and pairing it with colorful gemstones can give it a more personalized and artistic flair.

Round White Gold Diamond Rings: A Popular Choice

Round white gold diamond rings are a popular choice because of their versatility and elegance. White gold complements the sparkle of the round diamond, creating a modern and sophisticated look that suits various styles and occasions.

Oval vs Round Diamonds: Durability and Practicality

When choosing between oval and round diamonds, consider durability and practicality. Both shapes have smooth edges that are less likely to chip compared to other cuts. However, round diamonds may be slightly more resilient due to their symmetrical shape, which distributes pressure evenly.

 

Oval and Round Diamonds in Different Metals: White Gold, Yellow Gold, and Platinum

Both oval and round diamonds pair well with a variety of metals. White gold enhances the sparkle, making the diamond appear whiter and brighter. Yellow gold provides a vintage or classic look, while platinum adds durability and a luxurious, contemporary feel.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q1: Which diamond shape offers better brilliance, oval or round?

A: Round diamonds generally offer superior brilliance, thanks to their symmetrical cut and facet structure. However, oval diamonds still deliver a beautiful sparkle with a more unique distribution of light.

Q2: Are oval diamonds cheaper than round diamonds?

A: Yes, oval diamonds are often more affordable than round diamonds of the same carat weight due to the lower amount of rough diamond lost during cutting.

Q3: Do round diamond engagement rings go out of style?

A: Round diamond engagement rings are timeless and unlikely to go out of style due to their classic appeal.

Q4: How does a round diamond engagement ring with side stones compare to a solitaire?

A: A round diamond ring with side stones adds extra sparkle and a touch of sophistication, whereas a solitaire setting is simpler and more traditional.

Q5: What is the bow-tie effect in oval diamonds?

A: The "bow-tie effect" is a shadow seen across the center of some oval diamonds, which is more pronounced if the diamond isn't cut well.

Q6: Is white gold a good choice for diamond rings?

A: Yes, white gold is an excellent choice for diamond rings as it enhances the stone's sparkle and has a modern, elegant appeal.

 

Conclusion

Choosing between an oval or round diamond ultimately depends on personal taste, budget, and style preferences. If you appreciate classic sparkle and don't mind spending a bit more, a round diamond may be the perfect choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique appearance and want to maximize visual impact without overspending, an oval diamond is a wonderful option. Both shapes offer timeless elegance and beauty, so no matter which you choose, it will surely be a cherished engagement ring.